The classic black pump is undeniably a tried-and-true wardrobe staple, but the familiar pointed-toe stiletto silhouette can become a little mundane, and certain outfits call for a little something extra. The traditional black pump can be reinvigorated through material reinvention, striking embellishment or creative silhouettes — below, FN rounds up three celebrity looks from July 2026 that have showcased just that.

Zoe Saldaña stepped out in New York City on Thursday wearing Aquazzura‘s Mon Amour Pump 105, which is crafted from sheer mesh tulle and accented by tonal satin trim. The upper features an elaborate design of floral embroidery while the silhouette reinvents the pump shape with an elongated pointed toe and plunging vamp. The shoes elevated an icy gray Magda Butrym off-the-shoulder dress with ruching from the label’s fall 2026 collection.

Earlier in the week, Saldaña showcased another fresh take on the classic pump with Aquazzura’s Love Affair pump in mesh worn with a Balmain dress at the “Lioness” season three premiere.

Zendaya took her method dressing dedication down to her shoes at the “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” Los Angeles premiere on Monday with a pair of custom Christian Louboutin Miss Z pumps accompanying her dramatically sculptural Ashi Studio fall 2026 couture gown. The shoes featured a web-like design across the upper and a 3D spider adorning the vamp on one shoe and the back of the other. While the shoes were made for Zendaya, they showcased how footwear embellishment can become the irresistible finishing touch of a look.

While intricate designs and eye-catching embellishments can elevate a pump, subtle changes in silhouette can make a heel more interesting, too. Take, for example, the celebrity-loved Fame pump from Jude, a rising footwear brand. The shape is easily recognizable thanks to its curved blade heel and narrow square toe. Tracee Ellis Ross recently wore the black leather version of the Fame pump to go with a black sleeveless top and sheer black pants.